|
Paradoxes of Prayer Tadao Ogura, M.D. |
|
|---|---|
|
Click to open a site you want to visit |
I asked GOD for strength
that I might achieve. I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey!
I asked for health that I
might do greater things. I was given infirmity that I might do better things!
I asked for riches that I
might be happy. I was given poverty that I might be wise!
I asked for power that I
might have the praise of men. I was given weakness that I might feel the need
of GOD!
I asked for all things that
I might enjoy life. I was given life that I might enjoy all things!
I got nothing that I asked
for, but everything I had hoped for!
Almost despite myself, I am, among all, most richly blessed!
- Author Unknown Dr. Ogura’s Comment
This poem depicts the difference between “Wants vs. Needs.” (This is also dealt with in the “Basic Principles” page in this website). With our judgmental, discriminating minds, we “ask” God for what we want. God gives us, in stead, what we truly need. That is because God is concerned about our true needs as souls and helps us not to be destracted to "people, places, and things." By not giving us what we asked for, He forces us to gain humility, better things, wisdom, need for God, and how to enjoy what we have. A related issue is discussed in “The Gift in the Struggle” in this web site.
|